AZERBAIJAN | The Ombudsman's NPM Group conducted an on-site-visit without prior notice

The Ombudsman's National Preventive Mechanism Group members conducted an on-site-visit to the Sheki District Psychiatric Hospital without prior notice.

The purpose of the visit, implemented in line with the OPCAT and the Constitutional Law on the Ombudsman of Azerbaijan, was to monitor the treatment and conditions of the residents of the health setting, the organization of the health service, the documentation on the lawfulness of their detention, and the follow-up of the implementation of the previously given recommendations.

During the on-site visit, the wards, workshops, a kitchen, canteens, visiting room, food store, sanitary wares, and walking and sport areas were inspected. Consequently, a lack of health providers and assisting staff was found. Also, there were deficiencies in the documentation.

At the conclusion of the visit, the management of the mental health care setting was given recommendations on how to eliminate the revealed shortages and issues that could be resolved immediately. Also, the NPM members held awareness talks with the management to ensure the best protection of the rights of psychiatric patients' and the prevention of any possible mistreatment of them.

Source: The Commissioner for Human Rights of the Republic of Azerbaijan